University Communications

Minot State University Summer Theatre celebrates its 51st season at the MSU Amphitheatre June 8 through July 17 with “Godspell,” “School House Rock, Live!” “Noises Off” and “Oklahoma.”

MSU Summer Theatre kicks off the season June 8-12 with “Godspell,” directed by Mark McQuade, music associate professor, with book by John-Micheal Tebelak and music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz. Through an eclectic blend of music, dance, games, story and comedy, the life of Jesus and his message of kindness and love are vibrantly portrayed. Featuring such songs as “Day by Day,” “Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord,” “Learn Your Lessons Well” and “By My Side,” “Godspell” touches audiences of all ages.

The season continues with the Minot premiere of “School House Rock, Live!” directed by Connie Gilseth, with book by Scott Ferguson, George Keating and Kyle Hall, and music and lyrics by Lynn Aherns, Bob Dorough, Dave Frishberg, Kathy Mandry, George Newall and Tom Yohe, June 17-21. This lively musical is based on the Emmy award-winning 1970s Saturday morning cartoon series that taught history, grammar, math and more through clever tunes and lyrics to young audiences across the nation. The musical is fantastic for audiences of all ages.

Touted as one of the funniest farces ever written, Micheal Frayne’s “Noises Off” returns to the MSU Summer Theatre stage under the direction of Joe Koppinger to delight audiences with its manic menagerie of actors and comedic chaos … and an errant herring June 28-July 2.

Where rivalry, romance and statehood meet, “Oklahoma!” shows how love conquers the Western Indian Territory at the turn of the 20th century July 13-17. Despite a spirited rivalry between farmers and cowboys, destiny and the promise of a bright future await Curly, a handsome cowboy, and Laurey, a beautiful farm girl. With book and lyrics by Oscar Hamerstein II and music by Richard Rodgers, Chad Gifford directs the play.

Nestled into the grassy hillside just north of the campus, the amphitheater has been home to

MSU Summer Theatre since 1971. Boasting exceptional views of the stage and Minot, it delivers the perfect spot for a night of theater under the stars.

All performances begin at 8:30 p.m. The box office opens the evening of each performance at 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices are: $12 adults, $10 seniors, students and military with ID, $8 for children (12 and under), $5 for MSU summer students, faculty and staff with current MSU ID. Reservations, which are strongly recommended, begin May 31. For reservations or questions, call 858-3228.